You Gotta Be Kidney

Cody and Kacy flank their brother Brett, center

As many of you know, my eldest son, just 27 at the time, was diagnosed with a very rare kidney disease back in October of 2014. He was put on peritoneal dialysis shortly thereafter, and has been actively seeking a Living Kidney Donor ever since.

We are fortunate to have had lots of folks--including his youngest brother-- who volunteered to donate, but for one reason or another, they were deemed not suitable. Once, we made it as far as the operating room before complications halted the procedure.

But that's past. We are happy to announce that we can look forward to a transplant date of June 1, as the girl my son wants to marry is donating her kidney to him. We are ecstatic, but it has been quite an emotional rollercoaster ride--and one we could not have tolerated without the support of friends and family.

Carrie, c. is flanked by The Missus and The PubScout

One such friend is Carrie Maron-Cupillari, herself a transplant recipient. She was our server when The PubScout went to cover a beer event at The Station Bar & Grill in Garwood. It's a neat place that carries some great beer and has outstanding food. You can read that review here:

Because she knows that insurance doesn't cover all expenses, she has sent this note out on FaceBook:

"Good morning everyone. I hope everyone had a great weekend. I want all of my friends and family to know that I'm throwing a fundraiser for a wonderful man who's name is Brett. Brett has the same kidney disease I do. He is need of a kidney and finally found his match. With all of you that know me know that even though I have medical benefits it doesn't pay for everything 100%.

Let's help Brett out by coming to the Station Bar and Grill for dinner on May 11th. Order anything from the menu. It starts at 4:30om until kitchen closes. The only thing you will need is a flyer so that we know who came in for Brett! I have the flyers just contact me and I will get one or more to you as soon as possible!! 908-514-2182."

Carrie is being assisted by our good friend Mimsy Adamson, who, along with her family and Zumba Club, already raised a substantial amount for our son. (I will NOT be linking to the video made of me doing Zumba, as this page is rated PG, and some people may be eating.)

We are eternally grateful for the efforts of these wonderful gals and the folks at The Station, like owner Brian Cruickshank.

Anyway, our family hopes to be at The Station on May 11 to participate in the event. (I may even be forced to have a beer or three.) We hope to see you there!

Cheers!

The PubScout